If you want to go for the full effect and make a sandwich as similar to the restaurant’s as possible, griddle the bread in some butter before assembling. It takes a little while to griddle all the slices, but it’ll add a lot of richness and flavor. And you can do all of the other components ahead of time. This recipe is from Turkey and the Wolf in New Orleans, our #1 Best New Restaurant 2017.

Russian Dressing

Assembly

12 thin slices caraway rye or whole wheat bread

8 thick-cut slices deli-style Swiss cheese

Recipe Preparation

Collards

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook garlic, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add vinegar, sugar, Creole seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and ¼ cup water. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid is slightly reduced, about 10 minutes. Add collards, tossing in liquid to wilt. Cover pan, reduce heat to low, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until collards are dark green and very soft, 2½–3 hours. There should be very little liquid left—just enough to coat greens. If there is too much, cook uncovered until you have the right amount.

Do Ahead: Collards can be made 3 days ahead. Let cool; cover and chill.

Russian Dressing

Mix mayonnaise, cherry peppers, hot sauce, ketchup, and pepper in a small bowl to combine.

Do Ahead: Dressing can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.

Assembly

Heat broiler (rack should be in highest position). Place 8 slices of bread on a rimmed baking sheet and toast, checking every 30 seconds, until golden brown, 1–2 minutes. Turn and toast second side until golden brown, 1–2 minutes. Top each toast with a slice of cheese and broil until melted and starting to brown, 1–2 minutes. Transfer to a work surface.

Place remaining 4 slices of bread on same baking sheet and toast, checking every 30 seconds, until golden brown, 1–2 minutes. Turn and toast second side until golden brown, 1–2 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

If collard greens are cold, reheat in a large skillet over medium until hot, about 5 minutes.

Divide 2 cups slaw among 4 cheesy toasts. Top with remaining 4 cheesy toasts. Using a slotted spoon (or you’ll end up with a soggy sammy), divide collard greens among cheesy toasts. Generously spread one side of plain toasts with dressing and place dressing side down on collard greens to close sandwiches. Cut sandwiches in half diagonally and serve with lots of napkins.